Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the world around you? Bright lights, loud noises, or crowded spaces leave you feeling drained, anxious, or on edge. If this sounds familiar, you may be easily overstimulated, a state also known as sensory overload.
For highly sensitive people, overstimulation can be a daily challenge that interferes with work, relationships, and overall well-being. But what causes this heightened sensitivity, and why do some people seem to get overstimulated so easily?
In this article, we’ll explore the neurological roots of overstimulation, including how factors like prenatal stress, birth trauma, and early childhood experiences can contribute to sensory input processing issues. We’ll also discuss how Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care, a unique approach offered by PX Docs, can help restore balance to the sympathetic nervous system and relieve those struggling with sensory overload.
What is Overstimulation?
Overstimulation, or sensory overload, occurs when the brain becomes overwhelmed by the amount of sensory input it receives from the environment. This can happen when too much sensory information comes in too quickly or when the brain has difficulty filtering out irrelevant stimuli.
When overstimulated, a person may experience a range of physical symptoms, including:
- Headaches or migraines
- Muscle tension or pain
- Fatigue or exhaustion
- Rapid heartbeat or chest tightness
- Nausea or digestive discomfort
In addition to these physical characteristics of overstimulation, it can also lead to cognitive and emotional challenges, such as:
- Difficulty concentrating or focusing
- Feeling overwhelmed or anxious
- Irritability or mood swings
- Withdrawal from social situations
- Sensory avoidance or seeking behaviors
It’s important to note that while overstimulation and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) share some similarities, they are not the same thing. SPD is a more complex neurological condition that affects how the brain processes and responds to sensory input. People with SPD may be over- or under-responsive to certain stimuli, and the traits of sensory overstimulation can interfere with daily functioning and development.
In contrast, overstimulation can happen to anyone, particularly those who are highly sensitive to their environment. It is a temporary state that occurs when the brain becomes overwhelmed, rather than a chronic condition like SPD. However, individuals with SPD may be more prone to experiencing overstimulation due to their unique sensory processing challenges.
The Nervous System’s Role in Sensory Processing
To understand why some people have an overactive nervous system, it’s essential to explore its intricate workings and its role in processing sensory information.
The brain and nervous system constantly receive input from the environment through our senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. This sensory information travels through complex networks of neurons, where it is filtered, interpreted, and integrated to create our perception of the world around us.
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays a crucial role in regulating our body’s response to sensory input. The ANS is divided into two main branches:
- The sympathetic nervous system, which activates the “fight or flight” response in stressful or threatening situations
- The parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes “rest, regulate, and digest” functions and helps the body return to a state of calm
When the delicate balance between these two branches is disrupted, it can lead to a heightened stress response and difficulty processing sensory information. This is known as nervous system dysregulation and dysautonomia, and the most common presentation is an overactive sympathetic response.
One of the key players in this balance is the vagus nerve, a long, wandering nerve that connects the brain to various organs throughout the body. The vagus nerve is responsible for regulating many essential functions, including heart rate, digestion, and emotional responses. When the vagus nerve is functioning optimally, it helps to promote a sense of calm and resilience in the face of stress and sensory stimulation.
However, when the vagus nerve and other parts of the nervous system are not communicating effectively, it can lead to subluxation and dysautonomia. Subluxation refers to imbalances in the neurospinal system that can disrupt nervous system function and regulation. Dysautonomia is an imbalance in the autonomic nervous system that can cause a wide range of characteristics, including sensory processing issues.
Adults and Parents Working Through Overstimulation
For parents already dealing with the stresses of everyday life, overstimulation can be particularly challenging. Many parents struggle with their children’s overstimulation while also trying to manage their own sensory needs. They often express feeling as though they’ve lost their patience, energy, and ability to cope with the daily challenges of family life.
The cumulative effect of years of stress can lead to symptoms that are difficult to recover from, such as brain fog, poor sleep, and low energy—all potential signs of adrenal fatigue.
Similarly, teenagers face high demands related to their growth, hormones, academics, sports, extracurricular activities, and peer pressure. This constant stress cycle can quickly drain their energy, leaving them feeling exhausted and rundown.
At PX Docs, we categorize stress into three primary sources: physical, chemical, and emotional.
- Physical stressors include factors such as lack of sleep, excessive exercise, and injuries or illnesses that require extra energy and resources for healing.
- Chemical stressors often relate to diet and nutrition. Examples include poor eating habits, excessive sugar or caffeine intake, and exposure to environmental toxins or certain medications. These can place additional strain on the body’s nervous system.
- Emotional stressors are particularly evident in teens and adults. Factors such as relationship challenges, social pressures, academic or work demands, financial concerns, and the constant influx of digital information can all contribute to increased emotional stress.
Chronic stress can overload the HPA axis (Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Adrenal axis), the body’s main stress-response system that typically handles short bursts of stress by releasing cortisol and other hormones. When stress persists, the HPA axis remains continuously activated, leading to elevated cortisol levels that can cause dysregulation. This results in the nervous system being stuck in “fight-or-flight” mode, contributing to fatigue, anxiety, weakened immunity, and other symptoms.
“The Perfect Storm” of Factors That Contribute to Your Child’s Sensory Overload
While the nervous system plays a central role in sensory processing, it’s important to recognize that various factors throughout an individual’s life can impact its development and function. At PX Docs, we refer to this combination of influences as “The Perfect Storm.”
One key factor in this storm is prenatal stress and maternal health. During pregnancy, the developing fetus is highly attuned to the mother’s emotional state and physical well-being. Chronic stress, anxiety, or health issues during pregnancy can alter the development of the fetal nervous system, potentially setting the stage for sensory processing challenges later in life.
Birth interventions and trauma can also have a significant impact on a newborn’s delicate nervous system. Procedures such as forceps delivery, vacuum extraction, or cesarean section can cause physical stress and compression on the infant’s head and neck, potentially leading to subluxations and altered nerve function. Even seemingly routine interventions, like the use of epidurals or induction medications, can disrupt the natural birth process and affect the baby’s neurological development.
As children grow and develop, they may encounter various early childhood stressors and environmental factors that can further contribute to sensory processing issues. These may include:
- Exposure to toxins or pollutants
- Nutritional deficiencies or imbalances
- Physical or emotional trauma
- Chronic illness or infections
- Sensory deprivation or overstimulation
- Family stress or dysfunction
The cumulative effect of these factors over time can lead to a “Perfect Storm” of nervous system dysregulation, making it more difficult for the brain to effectively process and respond to sensory input. Just as a series of small cracks in a foundation can eventually compromise the stability of a building, the accumulation of these stressors can erode the resilience of the nervous system, leading to heightened sensitivity and overstimulation.
Conditions Commonly Associated with Sensory Overload
While anyone can experience sensory overload, certain neurological and mental health conditions can make individuals more susceptible to overstimulation. Some of the most common conditions associated with sensory processing challenges include:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Many individuals with ASD have difficulty processing sensory input and may be over- or under-responsive to certain stimuli.
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): People with ADHD often struggle with filtering out irrelevant sensory information, leading to feelings of overwhelm and overstimulation.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Trauma can cause the nervous system to become hypervigilant and reactive, making it more challenging to regulate responses to sensory input.
- Anxiety disorders: Chronic anxiety can heighten sensitivity to environmental stimuli, exacerbating sensory processing issues and overstimulation.
It’s important to recognize that while these conditions can increase the likelihood of experiencing sensory overload, not everyone with these diagnoses will struggle with overstimulation. Conversely, some individuals may be highly sensitive to sensory input without meeting the criteria for a specific neurological or mental health condition.
The PX Docs Approach: Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care
At PX Docs, we understand the profound impact that nervous system dysregulation can have on an individual’s ability to process sensory information effectively. That’s why we offer a unique approach to addressing overstimulation through Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care.
Our approach begins with advanced diagnostic tools, such as INSiGHT Scans, which allow us to identify areas of subluxation and nervous system dysfunction that may be contributing to sensory processing challenges. By pinpointing these imbalances, we can develop targeted care plans to support the brain-body connection and promote optimal nervous system function.
The images below represent a series of Neurological EMG scans on a patient struggling with sensory overload and overstimulation. The scan on the left shows a sympathetic dominant and overloaded system the patient struggled with before starting care, with the red and black bars in the middle back representing a very common “stress zone” where adults, teens, and sometimes even children “hold” their stress and overstimulation in a major way. Then the scan on the right shows how the nervous system becomes much more calm and regulated.
Tips for Managing Signs of Overstimulation in Children and Yourself
While seeking professional care is crucial for addressing the root causes of overstimulation, there are also many strategies that individuals and families can implement to better manage sensory overload in daily life. Here are some tips to consider:
- Create a sensory-friendly space: Designate a quiet, calm area in your home or workplace where you can retreat when feeling overwhelmed. Consider using soft lighting, comfortable textures, and soothing colors to promote relaxation.
- Practice grounding techniques: Engage in activities that help you feel more connected to your body and the present moment, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness meditation.
- Develop a sensory toolkit: Keep a collection of items that can help you regulate your sensory experience, such as noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, fidget toys, or weighted blankets.
- Prioritize self-care: Make time for activities that nourish your nervous system, such as exercise, spending time in nature, engaging in creative pursuits, or connecting with loved ones.
- Communicate your needs: Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and your sensory needs. Let others know when you’re feeling overwhelmed and need a break or accommodations.
Remember, managing the signs of overstimulation in children and within yourself is a process, and what works for one person may not work for another. Be patient with yourself and don’t hesitate to reach out for support when needed.
A New Approach for Those Who Experience Sensory Overload
Navigating the world with a highly sensitive nervous system can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that you are not alone. Understanding the neurological roots of sensory overload and seeking the right support can transform your relationship with sensory input and build greater resilience.
If you or a loved one is struggling with overstimulation, we invite you to explore the resources and support available through our network of compassionate, skilled practitioners. Visit the PX Docs Directory to find a provider near you and take the first step on your journey to optimal nervous system health.
Remember, your sensitivity is not a weakness—it is a unique aspect of your neurological wiring that deserves to be honored and supported. By embracing your sensitive nervous system and seeking the care you need, you can unlock your full potential and create a life of greater ease, joy, and connection.
